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BETA: This map is a new planning feature in active development. VisitScotland is not responsible for the content or accuracy of external links and accepts no liability for any reliance on the map.

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Suidhe Viewpoint

  1. Home
  2. Travel & planning
  3. Eco-Travel

Sustainable & responsible tourism in Scotland

Find out what responsible travel means to Scotland and how you can plan and enjoy a responsible trip.

What is sustainable or responsible tourism?

Braewick Caravan & Campsite

Sustainable tourism is holidaying in an eco, green and environmentally friendly way.

Responsible tourism is considering the wider impact your trip could have on the country you're visiting, and the world.

Your choice to travel responsibly can help:

  • protect the landscape
  • boost the local economy
  • and provide funding for new and innovative projects

Choosing a destination

Consider visiting during less popular times of year and discover places off the beaten track.

River Garry, Killiecrankie

© VisitScotland / Kenny Lam

Popular off-season destinations

Scotland is home to many iconic and famous landmarks and locations, which are really popular. If you want to visit them, consider travelling in quieter months in spring, autumn and winter. The weather is more changeable, but we still get plenty of sunshine and there are lots of outdoor activities that benefit from wind, rain or snow!

  • Spring holidays & breaks in Scotland
  • Summer holidays & breaks in Scotland
  • Autumn breaks
  • Winter & Christmas breaks

Canisp, Cul Mor and Cul Beag seen from Stac Pollaidh

Summer hidden gems

If you are travelling during summer, why not consider visiting some lesser-known places this time? We've got plenty of ideas for places off the beaten track which will still give you an amazing experience.

  • 11 Off-the-beaten-track holiday destinations in Scotland
  • 9 Iconic Scottish spots with hidden gems nearby
  • 6 Epic alternatives to the North Coast 500
  • 9 Alternative must-climb hills to Ben Nevis in Scotland
  • 5 Days of iconic attractions and hidden gems in Scotland

Fraserburgh Beach

© Discover Fraserburgh / Damian Shields

Deciding how long to stay for

There are many benefits to staying longer - you can take your time, savour the experiences, and be more flexible with your plans. You can choose to come back again on a quieter day or have that extra travel time to go further.

  • Slow travel adventures in Scotland

ScotRail train at Loch Awe station

© Scotrail / Tony Hardley

How you'll travel around

Scotland's public transport options are great for travelling sustainably around the country. There are electric cars, frequent train services, buses, coaches and a wide network of cycle and footpaths.

  • Getting around Scotland by train FAQs
  • Explore Scotland via bus & coach tours
  • Getting around Scotland by ferry
  • Your ultimate guide to cycling in Scotland
  • Driving an electric vehicle in Scotland
  • Walking in Scotland

Things to do on holiday

Crafty Distillery, Newton Stewart

Find out about eco-friendly businesses in Scotland. We've got some great examples of how businesses are sustainable, and all you need to know about the Green Tourism business scheme.

  • Green & sustainable businesses in Scotland

Respect the landscape

You should always be respectful of the landscapes and communities you visit. We ask everyone to tread lightly and consider how their behaviour impacts each other and Scotland.

Scottish Outdoor Access Code

Explore Scotland's outdoor land responsibly by following the Scottish Outdoor Access Code, which applies to most land and inland water.

10 Scottish Outdoor Access Code Tips

Check out guidance from the Scottish Outdoor Access Code for top tips on how to enjoy the outdoors safely and responsibly.

A guide to outdoor safety in Scotland

Scotland's scenery can be stunning but also wild and rural. Be prepared with the correct clothing and equipment.

From Deep Time to Our Time

Filmed across the Cateran Ecomuseum, watch how the destination champions car-free holidays by using low-carbon ways to travel.

Coming soon

Inner Forth cycle route - Forth Bridges

© Inner Forth Futures/This Way Up Media

Inner Forth Bike Bus

Explore the wonderful landscape of the Inner Forth area by bus. The seasonal transport will be piloted for over two years and will run on Sundays between 21 April until the end of October in 2024 and again in 2025. It's also free of charge!

  • Inner Forth Bike Bus
Enjoy the wonders of Round the Inner Forth by bike

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